“Instead of buying pasta sauce in jars, I made my own using fresh tomatoes and herbs. And rather than spending money on biscuits, cakes, and cordials, I created them in the kitchen. I used raspberries to make a refreshing drink and lemons to make barley water.”

The shift has helped the family-of-four cut their debts in half and save more than $22,000 in groceries over the years.

“Even a small change can make a huge impact on the environment and your bank balance. Eventually, our plan is to live off the grid completely,” she said.

“When I think what we used to waste, it gives me sleepless nights! Having worked in a kitchen for 20 years, I shudder to think how much cling wrap I threw away. The important thing is, we’re doing our bit now. Over the past four years, we’ve saved more than $22,000 at the supermarket.”